“The Transformative Brilliance of ‘Totally Killer’ (2023) – A Cinematic Triumph Explored”

Totally Killer (2023) Review: A Comedic Take on Time-Traveling Slasher Movies

Introduction

Totally Killer, directed by Nahnatchka Khan and produced by Blumhouse, offers a unique blend of time-travel and slasher movie spoofs. Released as an Amazon Original film, Totally Killer takes inspiration from classics like Back to the Future and Halloween, offering a comedic twist to the horror genre. While the film may not satisfy ardent horror fans, it delivers a decent balance of humor and a somewhat predictable slasher plotline.

Plot and Characters

The story revolves around Jamie Hughes, portrayed by Kiernan Shipka, a teenager who unwittingly gets sent back in time to 1987, just before a series of killings took place. The filmmakers, lacking prior experience in the horror genre, rely heavily on comedic elements rather than focusing on the slasher elements. The humor primarily stems from Jamie’s fish-out-of-water experiences and the culture shock she faces when confronted with the casual sexism, homophobia, and lack of security consciousness prevalent in the 1980s.

The film also explores the dynamics between Jamie and her parents, played by Julie Bowen and Lochlyn Munro, and her interactions with her younger self, portrayed by Troy Leigh-Anne Johnson. These relationships serve as comedic fodder, with Jamie attempting to cock-block her parents and ensure they don’t get together until after college, thus securing her existence.

Comedic Elements and Reflections on the ’80s

Totally Killer relies heavily on nostalgia-driven humor and references to 1980s culture. The film draws parallels to Back to the Future in its exploration of time travel and uses cultural differences between the past and present as a source of comedy. However, it should be noted that the humor occasionally relies on stereotypes and outdated social norms, such as casual sexism and homophobia. The filmmakers use these elements to provide a contrast between the past and present, highlighting the progress made in societal attitudes.

While the comedic elements provide laughs, they detract from the horror aspect of the film. The slasher plotline takes a back seat for the majority of the film, reemerging only in the final act. This hampers the film’s ability to fully engage serious horror enthusiasts, who may find the balance between comedy and horror uneven.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Totally Killer offers viewers an entertaining and humorous take on the slasher genre, with its time-travel twist and ’80s cultural references. While the film may not have the depth or intensity to satisfy hardcore horror fans, it provides a light-hearted and enjoyable watch for casual viewers. The comedic elements, though occasionally relying on outdated stereotypes, serve as a lens through which to reflect on the progress made in societal attitudes since the 1980s.

Overall, Totally Killer is worth watching for its decent moments and well-executed jokes. It may not be a film that warrants repeated viewings in the future, but it offers an entertaining escape into a nostalgic era. Totally Killer is an Amazon Original film and is available to stream on Amazon Prime.